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A 10-year longitudinal study of untreated mucogingival defects
A L Freedman1, L M Salkin, M D Stein
1Department of Periodontology, Temple University School of Dentistry, Philadelphia, PA.
Journal of Periodontology
|February 1, 1992
Summary
Areas with limited keratinized gingiva remained stable over ten years in dental students with good oral hygiene. Small increases in keratinized gingiva width were observed but were not statistically significant.
Area of Science:
- Periodontology
- Oral Health
- Gingival Health
Background:
- Mucogingival defects and inadequate keratinized gingiva are common concerns in periodontology.
- Long-term stability of these areas without treatment is not well-documented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate changes in untreated mucogingival defects over a 10-year period.
- To assess the stability of keratinized gingiva width in dental students with inadequate keratinized gingiva.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study of 39 dental students initially, with 18 reassessed after 10 years.
- Measurements included plaque index, gingival index, probing depth, and width of keratinized gingiva.
- 112 sites with inadequate keratinized gingiva were assessed at baseline and 64 sites at 10 years.
Main Results:
- A slight increase in keratinized gingiva width was observed (1.73 mm to 2.01 mm), though statistically insignificant.
- 22 sites showed an increase, 32 remained unchanged, and 10 showed a decrease in width.
- High levels of oral hygiene and gingival health were maintained throughout the study period.
Conclusions:
- Untreated mucogingival defects with inadequate keratinized gingiva can remain stable over 10 years.
- Absence of gingival inflammation is a key factor in maintaining stability.
- This suggests a conservative approach may be viable for certain mucogingival conditions.